APUKIN Suspends Classes Following Assassination of Professor Abata

Kinshasa, January 9, 2026 - The Association of Professors of the University of Kinshasa (APUKIN) has suspended all academic activities until Wednesday, January 14, following the assassination of Professor Matthieu Abata. The decision was made during an extraordinary general assembly held on Friday, January 9, at APUKIN headquarters. The association also announced plans for a sit-in on Monday, January 12, in front of the Ministry of the Interior and Security to demand enhanced protection for faculty and researchers. David Lubo, President of APUKIN, declared: “No activities will take place on university campuses. We will meet again on Wednesday to assess the situation. APUKIN and allied institutions have decided to organize a sit-in this Monday, January 12, 2026, in front of the offices of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.” Professor Matthieu Abata was shot dead by armed bandits on Thursday, January 8, during a nighttime raid on his home in the Plateau des Professeurs neighborhood of Lemba, Kinshasa. APUKIN is calling on the government to cover funeral expenses and ensure the well-being of his widow and children, highlighting the urgent need for better security measures for university staff.